Our Opinion: First step

New TPD chief must restore trust

In choosing Michael DeLeo as Tallahassee's next police chief, City Manager Anita Favors Thompson has selected an energetic law enforcement official who has steadily been promoted during his career in South Florida.

Mr. DeLeo was one of five finalists interviewed for the position after chief Dennis Jones was forced to retire in September, following intense public questioning of the department's training, supervision and use-of-force policies. There's also been a need for progressive leadership at the Tallahassee Police Department, an agency once heralded as one of the nation's best.

During his nearly 20-year career with the city of Plantation Police Department in Broward County, Mr. DeLeo has immersed himself in police operations, combined with academia (he has a law degree) and community service. As deputy chief, Mr. DeLeo oversees his department's budget, its dispatch operations and recruitment and hiring, among other charges. He also developed an annual training program required for all sworn officers in use of force, driving and other high-liability areas.

The selection of a police chief has been much anticipated in this community.

The department has been beleaguered by incidents that tie directly to the department's leadership and accountability. Separate grand jury presentments over the past several years have been critical of the department's disregard for its own policies and procedures. Reports have been critical of officers as well as supervisors.

The Democrat's editorial board had called on Ms. Favors to think carefully before naming the next chief, as that person not only must have an impeccable record in law enforcement, but also needed to be someone who could lead a cultural change within the department.

Mr. DeLeo seemed to understand that need during last month's interviews of the five finalists. Mr. DeLeo talked about leading a TPD that understands its role in law enforcement but also recognizes how critical it is to develop strong community relations.

"One by one we'll reach out to people and build that trust," Mr. DeLeo told a citizen interview panel.

Mr. DeLeo will take over a department in need of a leader who can inspire young officers as well as challenge veterans to embrace change.

Mr. DeLeo also must be approachable by residents in all quadrants of the city, and he must insist on transparency within department operations.